You want no-hassle blooms

Begonia's flowers brighten both summer gardens and home interiors. Low-maintenance angelwing and wax begonias are tops, thanks to their continuous blooms in pinks, reds and corals. Fertilize begonias to encourage flowering, and set them in a sunny window. More picks: orchids and hibiscus.

You like a sculptural look

Place a silvery agave in bright light (and away from kids and pets that may touch the sharp spines). After that, you don't have to do much other than admire it. More picks: silver jade plant and Hawthoria.

You have plant-eating pets

Try African violets, which, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, won't harm pets. They do well in artificial light or indirect sunlight, producing adorable flowers in lavender, pink and white. More picks: Gloxinia and bamboo palm.